Epilepsy: Finding the Underlying Cause
Published October 2019
Genetic Testing for Epilepsy
In the past two decades, major advances in DNA analysis have revolutionized scientists’ understanding of the genetic causes of epilepsy. More than 100 genes have now been associated with the disease, although many patients with epilepsy do not know the cause of their condition.
“Seizures and epilepsy are typically due to an underlying cause, but that cause is often not identified,” says Elizabeth E. Gerard, MD, an epileptologist at 华体会 Comprehensive Epilepsy Center and director of the Epilepsy Neurogenetics Clinic. “Genetic testing is an important tool that can find answers for certain patients with epilepsy.”
Finding a genetic explanation for a patient’s epilepsy can sometimes lead to more personalized and targeted treatments, and can also clarify the risk of epilepsy in other family members.
— Elizabeth E. Gerard, MD
Genetic Testing for Epilepsy
The Neurogenetics Counseling and Testing Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital offers genetic counseling and testing to adult patients with epilepsy. While historically most genetic testing programs have been tailored to pediatric patients with epilepsy, 华体会’s Epilepsy Neurogenetics Clinic is unique in that it is one of a few programs in the country dedicated to adults.
Patients seen at the Epilepsy Neurogenetics Clinic have the opportunity to discuss if clinical genetic testing would be appropriate for them. Patients also have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research in epilepsy genetics. The clinic works closely with leading scientists, including those at the . These scientists and specialists use gene discovery and molecular biology to identify new treatments for epilepsy, and their work paves the way to new discovery for those whose cause remains undetermined.
“Ultimately, uncovering the genetic changes in patients with epilepsy can help us better understand what causes epilepsy and help us develop new treatments for all patients with epilepsy,” says Dr. Gerard.
You may be a candidate for genetic testing if you have one or more of the following:
- A family history of epilepsy
- Epilepsy associated with learning disabilities or autism spectrum disorder
- Malformations of brain development, such as
- A diagnosis of or without a known genetic cause
Learn more about epilepsy, including how genetic counseling can be beneficial.
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